Razor wire, made from steel tape, is a type of fence used for security and livestock containment. It was developed during WWI and is now commonly used in military applications. It is difficult to pass or cross, and can be electrified for added security. Protective clothing and tools can be used to overcome it.
Barbed wire is a type of fence usually used in security applications or to prevent extremely stubborn livestock from escaping. It is similar to barbed wire in construction, but features razor-sharp shapes cut from steel tape, rather than barbs. Although the words “razor wire” conjure up an image of razor-adorned fencing, the name is actually taken from an ancient trademark, “Razor Ribbon,” which was used to distinguish fence from barbed wire.
The production of barbed wire began in World War I when several German companies realized that cutting steel strip with dies was cheaper and more efficient than manufacturing barbed wire. This early product was called razor tape, and it was actually weaker and easier to get through than barbed wire, as a set of snips could cut it quickly. In the 1980s, barbed wire with a reinforced core of steel wire began to be offered. This type of razor wire is made by curling razor ribbon over the core of the wire.
While barbed wire comes in large coils designed to be installed in taut lines, it is most commonly seen in the form of accordion wire. Accordion wire is a wire that stays coiled, making it more difficult to pass or cross. The spools vary in size and are designed to lie flat, making accordion wire ideal for military applications. When a length of thread is needed, it can be quickly pulled out and the coils left tight or arranged more loosely, depending on how much of a deterrent is to be created.
Typically, barbed wire is used for security fences. An unprepared individual attempting to enter or exit a protected area will have difficulty getting around the barbed wire, especially if the accordion configuration is used. Commonly, security fences are also curved, to make climbing even more difficult, and certain security companies may also electrify the wire. It is also used on stockyards, as some animals will crash into the barbed wire fence, but not the barbed wire.
In a contest with barbed wire, an unprepared and unprotected individual will likely emerge with painful cuts and scrapes. However, it is possible to overcome barbed wire, with the assistance of protective clothing, shears and pads to be placed over the barbed wire. Many military personnel train their soldiers in how to deal with razor wire and razor wire, so they don’t get trapped on the battlefield.
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